High severityActive
Blakeman's armed "provisional deputy sheriff" program
Blakeman launched a program to deputize armed, licensed civilian volunteers during emergencies; Democratic legislators sued, alleging an illegal militia.
Both sides, sourced
The case on each side
Defenders argue
Blakeman said they are legal emergency special deputies who will not replace police.
Critics argue
Critics called it an illegal militia with minimal training and an authoritarian power grab.
Sources
Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Nonpartisan accountability